TRAFFIC LINE MANUAL June 2011 - TRAFFIC-ROADWAY SECTION
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TRAFFIC LINE
MANUAL
June 2011
TRAFFIC-ROADWAY SECTIONTABLE OF CONTENTS
Foreword ..............................................................................................................................................iv
Section A: General Principles
A-1 Functions and Limitations ...................................................................................................................................... 1
A-2 Colors........................................................................................................................................................................ 1
A-3 Colored Pavements................................................................................................................................................. 1
A-4 Functions, Widths, and Patterns of Longitudinal Lines...................................................................................... 2
A-5 Transverse Markings .............................................................................................................................................. 2
Section B: Longitudinal Line and Transverse Marking Standards
B-1 Centerlines ............................................................................................................................................................... 3
B-2 No-Passing Zone Markings.................................................................................................................................... 5
B-3 Lane Lines .............................................................................................................................................................. 10
B-4 Edge Lines.............................................................................................................................................................. 11
B-5 Dotted Lines ........................................................................................................................................................... 13
B-6 Dotted Lane Lines ................................................................................................................................................. 16
B-7 Lane Reduction and Addition Transitions .......................................................................................................... 18
B-8 Channelizing Lines and Traversable Channelizing Islands ............................................................................ 20
B-9 Traversable Medians ............................................................................................................................................ 22
B-10 Non-Traversable Medians and Channelizing Islands ...................................................................................... 24
B-11 Right Turn Lanes ................................................................................................................................................... 26
B-12 Right Turn Slip Lanes ........................................................................................................................................... 28
B-13 At-Grade Right Turn Acceleration Lanes........................................................................................................... 30
B-14 Left Turn Lanes...................................................................................................................................................... 31
B-15 Two-Way Left Turn Lanes.................................................................................................................................... 33
B-16 Roundabouts.......................................................................................................................................................... 35
B-17 Interchange Ramps: Entrance Ramps ............................................................................................................... 37
B-18 Interchange Ramps: Exit Ramps ........................................................................................................................ 39
B-19 Interchange Ramps: Ramp Terminals ............................................................................................................... 41
ODOT Traffic Line Manual ii
June 2011B-20 Approach to a Fixed Obstruction ........................................................................................................................ 43
B-21 Slow Moving Vehicle and Bus Turnouts ............................................................................................................ 45
B-22 Stop Bars ................................................................................................................................................................ 47
B-23 Yield Lines .............................................................................................................................................................. 49
B-24 Crosswalk Markings.............................................................................................................................................. 50
B-25 Lane Use Arrows ................................................................................................................................................... 52
B-26 Miscellaneous Arrows........................................................................................................................................... 54
B-27 School Markings .................................................................................................................................................... 55
B-28 Railroad Crossing Markings................................................................................................................................. 57
B-29 Preferential Lane Markings .................................................................................................................................. 59
B-30 Bicycle Facility Markings ...................................................................................................................................... 60
B-31 Cattle Guard Markings.......................................................................................................................................... 63
B-32 Parking Space Markings ...................................................................................................................................... 64
Section C: Raised Pavement Marker (RPM) Standards
C-1 Raised Pavement Marker (RPM) General......................................................................................................... 66
C-2 RPMs Used for Substitution................................................................................................................................. 67
C-3 RPMs Used for Supplementation........................................................................................................................ 68
C-4 RPMs Used for Positioning Guides .................................................................................................................... 69
C-5 Typical Layouts and Guidance for RPMs .......................................................................................................... 71
C-6 RPMs Used for Freeway Median Crossover..................................................................................................... 73
Section D: Surface Mounted Tubular Markers
D-1 Typical Layouts and Guidance for Tubular Markers ........................................................................................ 74
Appendices
Appendix A: Delegated Authority ...................................................................................................................................... 75
Appendix B: ODOT Contacts ............................................................................................................................................. 76
Appendix C: Online Resources ......................................................................................................................................... 77
Appendix D: Bubble Note Index ........................................................................................................................................ 78
Appendix E: Signing and Striping Coordination- Critical Locations ............................................................................. 94
ODOT Traffic Line Manual iii
June 2011OREGON DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Traffic-Roadway Section
Traffic Line Manual
June 2011
Foreword
The purpose of this manual is to establish a guide for uniform traffic lines and pavement markings on the
Oregon state highway system. The manual is designed to be used by highway maintenance striping crews,
construction inspectors, designers, and others who are involved in the layout and design of traffic lines and
pavement markings on state highways.
Striping plans
Striping plans are required for all projects and maintenance activities where existing striping will be modified
(such as modernization and retrofit projects). The Engineer of Record should be consulted for layout of traffic
lines and pavement markings for these projects.
Striping plans are not required, but are strongly encouraged, for projects and maintenance activities where the
existing striping will be replaced in-kind (such as preservation and chip-seal projects). Striping plans for these
projects will ensure the existing striping has been verified for conformance to current standards for issues that
can be corrected within the existing roadway width (for example, verify and correct no-passing zones, legends,
etc.), will aid field personnel during construction, and will lessen the chance for installation errors. In addition,
preservation projects are the perfect time to consider changes to the existing striping to address a safety or
efficiency issue if the changes can be accomplished within the existing roadway surface (for example changing
a traversable median to a two-way left turn refuge), If striping plans are NOT produced, the existing striping shall
be verified for conformance to current standards and sufficiently documented to allow for replacement in-kind.
Nonstandard Markings
To a large extent, the traveling public relies heavily on traffic markings for guidance, vehicle positioning, and
information. Motorists may be confused and uncertain of the purpose of the marking unless the same markings
always convey the same meaning. If markings not conforming to this manual are necessary, they must be
reviewed and approved by the Region Traffic Engineer or State Traffic Engineer on state highways, and the
appropriate traffic engineering authority on other roads. See Appendix A for Delegated Authority. The ODOT
Traffic Manual contains additional details of how to get approval for non-standard applications.
References
The standards presented in this manual have been adapted from the 2009 edition of the Manual on Uniform
Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), Oregon MUTCD Supplements, and ODOT policy and guidelines. Additional
information and guidance can be found in Appendix B (ODOT contacts) and in Appendix C (online resources).
Availability
This manual is a web-only document, which can be accessed and printed in its entirety from the ODOT Traffic-
Roadway Section publications web site:
http://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/HWY/TS/publications.shtml#Striping_Publications
Updates
This manual will be updated continually and revisions will be made as necessary, typically on a yearly basis, but
could occur anytime. Contact the Traffic Devices Engineer to be placed on the notification distribution list to get
notified whenever the manual is updated.
ODOT Traffic Line Manual iv
June 2011Section A: General Principles
A-1 Functions and Limitations (MUTCD 3A.01)
Pavement markings have definite and important functions in providing guidance and information for the road
user. In some cases, markings are used to supplement other traffic control devices such as traffic signs or
signals. Markings may also be used alone in other applications to convey regulations, guidance, or warnings
more effectively than is possible with other devices, such as no-passing zones. Uniformity in the pavement
markings throughout the state will help produce efficient and safe traffic movements.
Pavement markings have limitations. They may be covered by snow, may not be visible when wet, and may not
be very durable when subjected to heavy traffic. In spite of these limitations, they have the advantage of
conveying warnings or other information to drivers without diverting their attention from the roadway. Audible
and tactile features, such as raised pavement markers, or surface profile changes can be added to alert the
road user that a line on the roadway is being crossed.
Deviations from the standards set out in this manual should not be made without approval of the State
Traffic Engineer or the person with authority delegated by the State Traffic Engineer. See Appendix A –
Delegated Authority for more information.
A-2 Colors (MUTCD 3A.05)
Pavement markings shall be yellow, white, red, or blue in color. The colors for pavement markings shall
conform to the standard highway colors and the following basic concepts:
• Yellow lines mark the separation of opposing flows of traffic; the left edge of the roadways of divided
and one-way highways and ramps; and the separation of two-way left turn lanes and reversible lanes
from other lanes.
• White lines separate the lanes of traffic flowing in the same direction or mark the right edge of the travel
lanes. Transverse markings (crosswalks, words, symbols, etc.) shall be white unless otherwise
specified in this manual.
• Red raised pavement markers indicate roadways that shall not be entered or used by the road user
facing those markings (i.e. wrong-way treatments). Use of red raised pavement markers must be
approved by the State Traffic Engineer.
• Blue markings indicate facilities for persons with disabilities. Blue raised pavement markers may be
used along the roadway to delineate the location of fire hydrants and should be used to delineate
approved freeway cross-over locations (see section C-6: RPMs used for freeway median crossovers).
• Black is not considered a marking color. It may only be used in combination with the four colors above
where a light-colored pavement does not provide sufficient contrast with the markings.
A-3 Colored Pavements (MUTCD 3G.01)
Use of colored pavements on state highways requires State Traffic Engineer approval when the application
does not constitute a traffic control device (for example, colored pavement within the stripes of a crosswalk or
colored pavement within the stripes of a bike lane). This includes all applications of colored pavements except
the following:
• Yellow colored pavement used for raised median islands separating traffic flows in opposite directions.
• White colored pavement used for raised channelizing islands where traffic passes on both sides in the
same general direction.
ODOT Traffic Line Manual 1
June 2011These two applications are recognized in the MUTCD (Section 3G.01) and do not require State Traffic Engineer
approval for installation.
A-4 Functions, Widths, and Patterns of Longitudinal Lines (MUTCD 3A.06)
In general, the functions of longitudinal lines are as follows:
• Solid lines discourage or prohibit crossing.
• Double lines indicate maximum or special restrictions.
• Broken lines indicate a permissive condition.
• Dotted lines provide guidance or warning of a downstream change in lane function.
• Width of line indicates the degree of emphasis.
The widths and patterns of longitudinal lines on state highways shall be as follows:
1. A normal line is 4 inches wide.
2. A wide line is 8 inches wide.
3. A double line consists of two parallel lines separated by a discernible space. Standard dimensions for
that space are 4 inches for a narrow double line or 12 inches for a wide double line.
4. A broken line consists of normal line segments separated by gaps in the ratio of 1:3. Standard
dimensions are 10 ft segments with 30 ft gaps for a 40 ft cycle length.
5. A dotted line consists of short line segments separated by gaps in the ratio of 1:3. The width of a
dotted line is dependent on the width of the line it extends, either 4 inches or 8 inches. Standard
dimensions for a dotted line used for line extension within an intersection or taper area are 2 ft
segments with 6 ft gaps for an 8 ft cycle length. Standard dimensions for a dotted line used as a lane
line are 3 ft segments with 9 ft gaps for a 12 ft cycle length.
6. A one-direction no-passing line or a two-way left turn line consists of a normal line parallel to a
broken line separated by a 4-inch space.
A-5 Transverse Markings (MUTCD 3B.15 & 3B.19)
Transverse markings include word and symbol markings, arrows, stop bars, crosswalk bars, speed hump
markings, and parking space markings. They are used for the purpose of regulating, warning, and guiding
traffic.
Word and symbol markings should be centered within the lane to which they apply. The spacing between
markings should be adjusted for approach speeds or as shown in this manual. Messages consisting of more
than one line of information should read “up” (i.e., the first word should be located nearest to the driver).
All letters, numerals, and symbols shall be white in color and in conformance with the pavement markings
chapter of the FHWA publication “Standard Highway Signs 2004 Edition.”
ODOT Traffic Line Manual 2
June 2011Section B: Longitudinal Line and Transverse Marking Standards
B-1 Centerlines (MUTCD 3B.01)
A centerline separates traffic traveling in opposite directions. It need not be at the geometric center of the pavement.
Centerlines shall be provided on:
• All paved highways that have a traveled way of 18 ft or more in width and an Average Daily Traffic (ADT) of
3,000 vehicles per day or greater.
• All paved highways with three or more lanes.
Centerlines should be provided on:
• Other traveled ways where engineering judgment indicates a need (e.g. route continuity demarcation at
intersecting routes).
Centerlines may be provided on:
• Other paved two-way traveled ways that are 16 ft or greater in width.
Types (Figure 1a):
• D: Referred to as a wide double yellow line, a “two-direction” or “double” no-passing centerline. A wide
double yellow line shall be used on undivided highways of four or more lanes and on undivided
highways where passing is prohibited for both directions of traffic.
• ND: Referred to as narrow double yellow line. Commonly used to delineate a traversable median
(Section B-9). It may also be used on narrow two-lane roadways instead of the wide double yellow line.
• YB: A normal yellow broken line shall be used on two-lane, two-way highways, where passing is
permitted for both directions of travel.
• Y: Used to delineate a non-traversable median (Section B-10). Also used as a left edge line to indicate
traffic traveling in opposite direction on divided highways (Section B-4).
• NPL or NPR: Referred to as a “one direction” no-passing centerline, a double line consisting of a yellow
broken line and a normal yellow solid line is used where passing is permitted for traffic adjacent to the
broken line and prohibited for traffic adjacent to the solid line. A NPL or NPR is determined by the
lateral location of the solid line with respect to the broken line when you are looking in the direction of
increasing stationing or increasing mile point (NPL has the solid line located to the left of the broken
line. NPR has the solid line located to the right of the broken line).
When used, centerline markings shall:
• NOT continue across intersections and major driveways, including private driveways with substantial
approach volumes (Figure 1b).
When used, centerline markings should:
• Continue across minor driveways (public or private) and alleys (Figure 1b).
Discussion:
Breaking the striping at major access points such as intersections and major driveways (including private
driveways with substantial approach volumes) is an important visual/wayfinding cue to motorists to help them
identify where an access point is located, especially in inclement weather. It is not applied to minor access
points such as driveways (public or private) and alleys because there is little need to identify access points that
are not used by the majority of the motoring public and it would make the treatment less effective at major
access points. Some access points are easy to define and stripe accordingly (e.g. signalized intersections and
major route intersections), but some are not.
The following may be considered when determining whether or not to break the striping for access points those
are less easily defined.
• Intersection indicators:
o The area of a roadway created when two or more public ways join together at any angle.
Junction of an alley or driveway with a public way shall not constitute an intersection (as
interpreted from MUTCD Section 1A.13 and Oregon Law ORS 801.320).
ODOT Traffic Line Manual 3
June 2011o Curb returns and/or significant radii.
o A street name sign on the intersecting roadway or ability to locate the intersecting roadway on a
city/county map. The intersecting roadway may be gravel (more common in regions 4 & 5).
o A stop sign (typically with stop bar) on the intersecting roadway.
o Left or right turn lanes present on the major roadway at the intersecting roadway.
• Major Driveway indicators (public or private):
o Curb returns and/or significant radii rather than a dustpan design or curb cut.
o A stop sign (typically with stop bar) at the driveway.
o Multiple approach lanes on the driveway.
o Left or right turn lanes present on the major roadway at the driveway.
o Substantial volumes entering and leaving the driveway.
• Minor driveway or alley indicators:
o Dustpan design, curb cut or small radii.
o Narrow width of intersecting roadway.
o Minor amount of traffic entering and leaving driveway (e.g. single home or small business).
ODOT Traffic Line Manual 4
June 2011B-2 No-Passing Zone Markings (MUTCD 3B.02)
An engineering study & Region Traffic Engineer approval is required for:
• No-passing zone markings for any location not listed below
No-passing zone markings legally establish the limits where vehicles are prohibited from crossing the centerline,
except to turn left onto or from an intersection, alley, private road, or driveway. Roadways without centerline
markings do NOT require no-passing zone markings.
No-passing zones shall be established at:
• Undivided highways of four or more lanes. A double no-passing centerline (D) is required in these
locations (Figure 2a).
• Vertical curves, horizontal curves, and elsewhere on two- and three-lane highways where passing must
be prohibited because of inadequate sight distances. Refer to pages 7 thru 9 for details.
• Lane reduction transitions (Figure 2b).
• Lane addition transitions and undivided three-lane highways (Figure 2c).
• Approaches to obstructions that must be passed on the right (Figure 2d).
• Approaches to highway-rail grade crossings (Figure 2e).
• Approaches to a traversable median, non-traversable median, or left turn lane where traffic is required
to keep to the right (Figure 2f). Approaches to intersections without a median or left turn lane do NOT
require no-passing zone markings.
Where no-passing zone markings are established:
• They should generally be 500 ft or longer. Where necessary, the no-passing marking should be
extended at the beginning of the zone to obtain the 500 ft minimum.
• The distance between successive no-passing zones for one direction of traffic should not be less than
400 ft. If the distance is less than 400 ft, the appropriate no-passing marking should connect the zones.
Discussion:
It is ODOT’s policy not to mark no-passing zones approaching unchannelized intersections. For additional
information see Section 6.23.3 of the ODOT Traffic Manual.
ODOT has historically (since at least 1990, as stated in the Traffic Line Manual) provided guidance that no-
passing zone markings should generally be 500 ft or longer. This is done to ensure that all of the no-passing
zones are long enough to command respect from the motoring public. Research has shown that short passing
zones (those 400 ft to 800 ft) in length contribute little to the operational efficiency of two-lane roads, but they
may be used for flying passes and for passing slow moving vehicles such as farm equipment. The research
also indicated that there was an absence of indication that these short passing zones resulted in poor safety
performance. For additional information see NCHRP Report 605.
ODOT Traffic Line Manual 5
June 2011ODOT Traffic Line Manual 6
June 2011Vertical and horizontal curve no-passing requirements:
• Where no-passing zones are established on horizontal or vertical curves, no-passing markings shall
begin and continue as long as the sight distance is less than the distance listed in Table 1.
• The beginning of a no-passing zone (point “a” in Figures 3, 4a, and 4b) is that point at which the sight
distance first becomes less than that specified in Table 1 below. The end of the zone (point “b” in
Figures 3, 4a, and 4b) is that point at which the sight distance again becomes greater than the minimum
specified.
Table 1: Guide for Minimum Passing Sight Distance
Posted or 85 Percentile Minimum Passing Sight
Speed (mph) Distance Needed (ft)
25 450
30 500
35 550
40 600
45 700
50 800
55 900
60 1000
65 1100
70 1200
Determining passing sight distance on a vertical curve:
• Passing sight distance on a vertical curve is the distance at which an object 3.5 ft above the pavement
surface can be seen from a point 3.5 ft above the pavement (Figure 3).
• Based on the geometry of the vertical crest curve, the required no-passing zones may or may not
overlap at the crest of the curve.
ODOT Traffic Line Manual 7
June 2011Determining passing sight distance on a horizontal curve:
Two methods are acceptable for determining passing sight distance on a horizontal curve:
1. The Standard Method
The sight distance is measured along the centerline between two points 3.5 ft above the pavement on a line
tangent to the edge of pavement (Figure 4a). This method results in longer no-passing zones than the
alternative method described below. However, changing field conditions (such as growing vegetation, future
buildings, etc.) will NOT impact the limits of the no-passing zones.
2. The Alternative Method
The alternative method should be used with engineering judgment. The sight distance is measured along
the centerline between two points 3.5 ft above the pavement on a line tangent to an obstruction that cuts off
the view on the inside of the curve (Figure 4b). This method allows more passing opportunities than the
standard method described above. However, the original line of sight may be compromised over time. Field
conditions (such as growing vegetation, future buildings, etc.) should be maintained and verified on a
regular basis to ensure that no-passing zones are still appropriate.
ODOT Traffic Line Manual 8
June 2011Reference posts:
• The ends of no-passing zone solid lines on state highways are usually marked with white reference
posts placed on the side of the roadway corresponding to the placement of the no-passing solid line.
• Arrows on the posts indicate the beginning and ending of the solid line (Figure 5).
• If the posts are no longer in place or appear to be incorrect (typically following a construction project
with roadway alignment changes), follow the guidelines set forth in Section B-2, pages 6-8 to determine
if an existing passing or no-passing zone is still appropriate prior to re-striping. Contact the Region
Traffic Engineer when in doubt.
Modification of existing passing zones:
It may be necessary to change an existing passing permitted section to a passing prohibited section based on
changing roadway conditions or the results of an engineering investigation. When this occurs:
• Any existing broken line markings between double solid lines shall be removed or obliterated as soon as
practicable.
• Broken line markings shall not be retraced or marked between the double solid lines.
ODOT Traffic Line Manual 9
June 2011B-3 Lane Lines (MUTCD 3B.04)
Lane lines separate lanes of traffic traveling in the same direction.
Lane widths shall:
• Be 10 ft minimum to 14 ft maximum (12 ft typical), unless otherwise approved or shown in this manual.
• Be as shown on the project plans for new construction, or as directed by the Region Traffic Engineer.
Types (Figure 6a):
• WB: A white broken line shall be used when crossing of the lane line markings with care is permitted.
• W-2: A wide solid white line shall be used when crossing of the lane line is discouraged. Typical
applications include; separating thru lanes from left and right turn lanes, bike lanes, in tunnels or on
bridges having narrow lane widths, and interchange areas where lane changing disrupts traffic flow.
• NDW: A double solid white line shall be used when crossing of the lane line is prohibited. Appropriate
regulatory signs should be installed (OR22-15: NO LANE CHANGE AHEAD, OR22-16: NO LANE
CHANGE NEXT XXXX FT., and/or OR22-17: NO LANE CHANGE NEXT ½ MILE).
When used, lane lines shall:
• NOT continue across intersections and major driveways, including private drive approaches with
substantial approach volumes. The T-intersection is an exception, where the lane line on the far side of
the intersection is not broken (Figure 6b).
When used, lane lines should:
• Continue across minor driveways (public or private), and alleys (Figure 6b).
ODOT Traffic Line Manual 10
June 2011B-4 Edge Lines (MUTCD 3B.06-3B.07)
Edge lines delineate the right or left edge of a roadway. They serve as an important visual reference to guide
motorists during adverse visibility conditions.
Edge lines shall be provided on:
• Interstate highways
• Freeways
• Expressways
• Rural multi-lane divided highways
• Rural highways with a traveled way of 20 ft or more in width and an ADT of 3,000 vehicles per day or
greater.
Edge lines should be provided on:
• Any highway where engineering judgment determines a need (such as route continuity demarcation at
intersecting routes).
• Locations where lateral positioning of vehicles may be difficult without an edge line as guidance (for
example, for lane reduction transitions from the beginning of the advance warning sign to beyond the
beginning of the narrower roadway).
• Rural highways with ADT greater than 3,000.
• Roadways that have shoulders with lesser structural pavement strength than the adjacent roadway (to
minimize unnecessary driving on paved shoulders or on refuge areas).
• Any new paved two-way, two-lane roads having a width of 24 ft or more, with adequate surfaced
shoulder.
Edge lines may be provided on:
• Roadways with a nominal paved width of 20 ft (two 10 ft lanes) contingent on sufficient existing shoulder
width for the operation of traffic line equipment.
Types (Figure 7):
• W: The right and left edge lines of two-way highways and right edge line of divided highways shall be
white solid lines.
• Y: The left edge line of divided highways or one-way streets, including any ramp, shall be a yellow solid
line.
When used, edge lines shall:
• Be white, except for the following cases, in which the edge line shall be yellow:
- On the left edge of the freeway and other divided highway sections (Figure 8a).
- On the left edge of interchange ramps up to the neutral area (white gore point markings) (Figure
8a).
• NOT continue across intersections and major driveways, including private drive approaches with
substantial approach volumes. The T-intersection is an exception, where edge line on the far side of
the intersection is not broken (Figure 8b).
ODOT Traffic Line Manual 11
June 2011When used, edge lines should:
• Continue across minor driveways (public or private) and alleys (Figure 8b).
• Be omitted at narrow bridges (Figure 8c).
• NOT typically be installed in urban sections or in areas that have marked parking stalls.
When used, edge lines may:
• Be omitted where the traveled way edges are delineated by curbs, parking, bicycle lanes, or other
markings.
• Be placed on streets and highways with or without centerline markings.
• Be extended across wide, complex intersections, or intersections located on a horizontal curve using a
dotted line (Figure 8b).
ODOT Traffic Line Manual 12
June 2011B-5 Dotted Lines (MUTCD 3B.08)
Dotted lines are used either for line extensions or as lane lines. Dotted lines for lane extensions provide
guidance through breaks in a line marking and are normally used in situations where the intended path may be
uncertain to road users, such as at skewed intersections, intersections with multiple turn lanes, and developed
right turn lanes with or without bike lanes. Dotted lines used as lane lines are discussed in Section B-6.
Types (Figure 9a):
• WD: A normal white dotted line is typically used to extend an edge line or lane line.
• WD-2: A wide white dotted line is typically used to extend multiple turn lanes and bike lanes.
• YD: A normal yellow dotted line is typically used to extend centerline.
Dotted lines shall be used:
• To mark an area where vehicles may be crossing a bike lane, such as development of a right turn only
lane (Figure 9b).
Dotted lines should be used:
• At left or right turn lanes located on sharp horizontal curves where drivers are likely to unintentionally
drift into the turn lane (Figure 10a).
• At roundabouts across the entry lanes (Figure 10b).
• As lane line extensions for multiple turn lanes at an intersection (Figure 10c).
• As extensions of shoulder edge lines at freeway exit ramps (Figure 10e).
ODOT Traffic Line Manual 13
June 2011ODOT Traffic Line Manual 14
June 2011Dotted lines may be used:
• At offset or skewed intersections (Figure 10d).
• Prior to full width development at right turn lanes (Figure 10f).
• As extensions of edge lines at wide, complex intersections or at intersections located on horizontal
curves.
When used, dotted lines shall:
• Be the same width and color of the line being extended. Two exceptions to this rule are dotted lines
used in left turn lane “gap” sections (Figure 10a) and across left-hand freeway exits. In these two
cases, the dotted line shall be a normal white dotted line (WD).
When used, dotted lines may:
• Follow the desired path through the intersection. When engineering judgment deems it necessary, the
dotted line is not required to direct turning traffic into the nearest lane (Figure 10c). This is typically
based on origin-destination patterns, traffic volumes, and/or design vehicle turning radii.
ODOT Traffic Line Manual 15
June 2011B-6 Dotted Lane Lines (MUTCD 3B.05)
Dotted lines are used as lane lines to provide warning of a downstream change in the lane function, such as, a
drop lane and interchange exit and entrance ramps.
Types (Figure 11):
• DLL: Normal width white dotted lane line is used for interchange entrance ramp acceleration lanes and
at-grade right-turn acceleration lanes.
• DLL-2: Wide white dotted lane line is used when a through lane becomes a mandatory exit or turn lane.
Also known as lane drop line.
Dotted lane lines shall be used:
• When a through lane becomes a mandatory exit or turn lane (Figures 12a & 12b).
• For freeway entrance ramps with parallel acceleration lane (Figure 12c) and for at-grade right turn
acceleration lanes.
• For an auxiliary lane 2 miles or less in length between an entrance ramp and an exit ramp.
• For an auxiliary lane 1 mile or less in length between two adjacent intersections.
When used, wide dotted lane lines (DLL-2) shall:
• Be followed by a solid wide white line (W-2) and at least two lane use arrows in advance of the
intersection (Figures 12a).
• Begin at least ½ mile in advance of the theoretical gore point for freeway applications (Figure 12b).
When used, wide dotted lane lines (DLL-2) should:
• Begin approximately ½ mile in advance of the wide solid white line (W-2) for urban locations, where
possible. Where space may be limited, engineering judgment should be used to determine the best
starting point of the lane drop line. Intersections and/or appropriate advance guide signing may help
determine a logical starting point.
When used, wide dotted lane lines (DLL-2) may:
• Start prior to other intersections, especially in urban locations where intersections are closely spaced. A
wide dotted lane line that is striped up to an intersection does not indicate that the lane drops at that
intersection (Figure 12a).
ODOT Traffic Line Manual 16
June 2011ODOT Traffic Line Manual 17
June 2011B-7 Lane Reduction and Addition Transitions (MUTCD 3B.09)
Lane reductions and additions are used in a variety of different applications, such as for climbing lanes, passing
lanes, and to adequately handle traffic volumes. Typical layout for lane reduction transition is shown in Figure
13. The layout shown in Figure 13 may not be appropriate for ramp meter locations with a two-lane approach.
Engineering judgment should be used for these locations.
Lane reduction transition layout shall include:
• A minimum length of no-passing zone markings following the taper for oncoming traffic according to
Table 2.
• Lane Ends sign (W4-2) placed at a distance “d” from the beginning of the taper. If not feasible, a
different “d” value may be used based on engineering judgment.
Table 2: No-Passing Zone Marking Distance
Posted or 85
Percentile Speed 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70
(mph)
Minimum No-
Passing Distance 450 500 550 600 700 800 900 1000 1100 1200
Needed (ft)
Lane reduction transition layout should include:
• Two lane reduction arrows as shown in Figure 13. An additional arrow may be installed in between the
two arrows.
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June 2011Typical layouts for lane addition transitions and transition between two lane reductions are shown in Figures 14a
and 14b, respectively.
Lane addition transition layout shall include (Figure 14a):
• Delineation of the lane lines with a white broken line (WB) as soon as full lane width is developed.
• A minimum length of no-passing zone markings preceding the start of the taper according to Table 2.
Transition between two lane reductions layout shall include (Figure 14b):
• A minimum length of no-passing zone markings following the end of the taper in the oncoming direction
according to Table 2.
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June 2011B-8 Channelizing Lines and Traversable Channelizing Islands (MUTCD 3B.05)
Channelizing lines are used to discourage or prohibit sideway movements of traffic proceeding in the same
general direction. Traversable channelizing islands are formed by channelizing lines and help direct the
motorists through an intersection or around obstructions.
Types (Figure 15a):
• W-2: A wide white line shall be used when crossing of the line is discouraged and to form channelizing
islands.
• NDW: A narrow double white line shall be used when crossing of the line is prohibited.
• CH: Chevron bars may be used within the neutral area. The points of the chevron bars shall be
toward approaching traffic.
Typical channelizing line applications:
• Approaches to obstructions (Figure 15b).
• Gores at freeway entrance and exit ramps (Figure 15c).
• Separation of turn lanes from through traffic lanes (Figure 15d).
• Any other location designed to discourage or prohibit crossing of the line when traffic proceeds in the
same general direction on both sides of the line (Figure 15e).
Traversable channelizing islands may:
• Include white chevron bars (CH) within the neutral area or island if extra delineation is needed for
special emphasis or to discourage motorists from entering the neutral area.
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June 2011B-9 Traversable Medians
Traversable medians provide separation between opposing flows of traffic and are intended to prohibit vehicles
from crossing the median except at driveways, alleys, and intersections or using it as a two-way left turn lane.
Traversable medians are delineated only by pavement markings and do not physically prevent vehicles from
crossing or entering the medians.
Types (Figures 16a):
• ND: Used to delineate medians 4 ft or greater in width (Figure 16b).
• D: Used to delineate medians less than 4 ft wide (Figure 16b).
• TM: Typical transverse median bar spacing.
• TM-40: Transverse median bars with increased spacing that may be used where the distance between
left turn lanes exceeds 200 ft.
Traversable medians shall:
• Have their yellow lines joined using a curve, where the median width is 6 ft or more and the median
ends at an intersection (Figure 16c). This is commonly referred to as a “bull nose”. Typically, a bull
nose that is 100 ft in length produces an aesthetically pleasing curve that misses the wheel path of
vehicles turning left from the side street.
• Have a minimum length of no-passing zone markings preceding the start of the taper according to Table
2 in Section B-7 (Figure 16d).
Traversable medians should:
• Be delineated with narrow double yellow lines (ND) when the median width is 4 ft or greater (Figures
16b & 16c).
• Be delineated with a wide double yellow line (D) when the median width is less than 4 ft, such as, for
passing lane sections (Figure 16e).
Traversable medians may:
• Be supplemented with yellow transverse median bars if medians are 6 ft or greater in width and when
engineering judgment determines it necessary. Typically the median bars are placed at 20 ft intervals.
When the distance between left turn lanes exceeds 200 ft, the spacing may be increased to 40 ft.
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June 2011B-10 Non-Traversable Medians and Channelizing Islands
Non-traversable medians (such as raised medians and traffic separators) and channelizing islands physically
prevent vehicles from crossing or entering the median or channelizing island by means of a raised curb or
concrete barrier.
Non-traversable medians shall:
• Have no passing-zone markings according to Section B-20 (Approach to a Fixed Object) preceding the
start of the non-traversable median.
Non-traversable medians and channelizing islands should:
• Have a normal solid line of the appropriate color installed along side the physical barrier where possible.
Due to striping equipment limitations, a line typically cannot be placed closer than 1.5 ft from the face of
the physical barrier. Some equipment may allow a closer placement or require a further placement from
the face of curb or barrier. Always check with the Region Striping Manager to confirm the equipment
limitations when designing striping within 3 ft of physical barriers to ensure that the striping can be
maintained after installation.
• Have retroreflective solid yellow markings and/or other treatments (such as raised pavement markers or
surface mounted tubular markers) placed on the nose of raised medians for delineation (Figure 17a).
• Have retroreflective solid white markings and/or other treatments (such as raised pavement markers or
surface mounted tubular markers) placed on the nose of channelizing islands for delineation (Figure
17b).
Non-traversable medians and channelizing islands may:
• Have yellow colored pavement for median islands separating traffic flows in opposite directions.
• Have white colored pavement for channelizing islands where traffic passes on both sides in the same
general direction.
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June 2011B-11 Right Turn Lanes
A right turn lane may be designed as a developed right-turn lane, a slip lane (refer to Section B-12), or a drop
lane where a thru lane becomes a mandatory right turn lane.
Right turn lanes shall include:
• A wide white line (W-2) for a developed right turn lane, where full lane width is developed prior to the
intersection (Figures 18a and 18b).
• A lane use arrow at the start of the wide white line (W-2). An additional arrow shall be included at the
mid-point of the full width lane when the wide white line (W-2) is longer than 400 ft (Figures 18a thru
18c).
• At least two lane use arrows where a thru lane becomes a mandatory right turn lane at an intersection,
one at the beginning of the wide white line (W-2) and one at the intersection (Figure 18c).
• Wide white dotted lines (WD-2) to indicate the area where turning vehicles may be crossing a bike lane
(Figure 18b).
Right turn lanes should include:
• A lane use arrow at the intersection for developed right-turn lanes.
• Adequate storage length depending on design speed, traffic volume, and traffic control type. An
engineering study should be done to determine the appropriate storage length for signalized
intersections. A minimum 50 ft length of wide white line (W-2) should be used for unsignalized
intersections.
• A white dotted line (WD) in the taper section for right turn lanes located on horizontal curves and where
a bike lane is not present.
• “ONLY” word markings where a thru lane becomes a mandatory right turn lane (Figure 18c).
Right turn lanes may include:
• A white dotted line (WD) in the taper section prior to full lane width development if a bike lane is not
present (Figure 18a).
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June 2011B-12 Right Turn Slip Lanes
An engineering study & State Traffic Engineer approval is required for:
• Right turn slip lanes at signalized intersection.
• Yield controlled right turn slip lanes from minor street (stop controlled)
onto major street (free flow).
• Stop or yield controlled right turn slip lanes from major street (free flow)
onto minor street (stop controlled).
Right turn slip lane is typical in rural areas with large radii. If right turn slip lanes are used at unsignalized
intersections in urban areas, special consideration should be given to the pedestrian crossing path. Figure 19a
shows typical markings for a right turn slip lane with a developed right turn lane.
• Yield, Stop, or signal control is required for right turn slip lane at signalized intersections, as deemed
necessary by an engineering study (Figure 19b).
• Stop control is the standard for right turn slip lane from minor street (stop controlled) onto major street
(free flow) (Figure 19c). Yield control may be provided if deemed appropriate by an engineering study.
• Uncontrolled is the standard for right turn slip lane from major street (free flow) to minor street (stop
controlled) (Figure 19d). Yield control is recommended if the “X” distance shown in Figure 19d exceeds
100 ft or an engineering study indicates a need. Stop control may be provided if deemed appropriate by
an engineering study.
Right turn slip lane should:
• Include stop bars with STOP signs at stop controlled slip lanes.
Right turn slip lane may:
• Include yield lines at yield controlled slip lanes.
• Include chevron bars (CH) in the neutral area of a traversable channelizing island (Figure 19d).
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June 2011B-13 At-Grade Right Turn Acceleration Lanes
An engineering study & the joint approval of the State Traffic Engineer
and the State Roadway Engineer are required for:
• Right turn acceleration lane from at grade intersection.
A Typical layout of an at-grade right turn acceleration lane is shown in Figure 20. Refer to Section 6.38.3.3 of
the ODOT Traffic Manual and Chapter 9 of the ODOT Highway Design Manual for design criteria of at-grade
right turn acceleration lane. Special consideration should be given to the bike users and pedestrians.
At-grade right turn acceleration lane shall include:
• White dotted lane line (DLL) from the end of the wide white line (W-2) to a distance equal to one-half the
distance between the beginning of the acceleration lane and the end of the taper.
• Double no-passing marking (D) from the intersection to the end of the taper.
• One-direction no-passing marking (NPL) for two-lane undivided highway starting at the end of the taper
and continue to a distance equal to the distance shown in Table 2 in Section B-7.
At-grade right turn acceleration lane should include:
• Two lane reduction arrows (LRA), one at the start of the white dotted lane line (DLL) and one at the end
of the white dotted lane line (DLL).
At-grade right turn acceleration lane may include:
• An additional lane reduction arrow (LRA) between the two required lane reduction arrows if the distance
between the arrows is 400 ft or more.
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June 2011B-14 Left Turn Lanes
Figure 21 illustrates the typical layouts for a left turn lane for two-lane undivided roads. Refer to Figure 9-7 on
Page 9-17 of the ODOT Highway Design Manual (HDM) for other configurations. For dual left turn lanes, refer to
Figure 9-16 on Page 9-32 of the HDM.
Left turn lanes shall include:
• A wide white line (W-2) according to the Table on Figure 21.
• Reversing curves (Figure 21: Option 1) for multiple left turns, left turns located on vertical crest curves or
horizontal curves, and end-to-end left turns.
• A minimum length of no-passing zone markings (according to Table 2 in Section B-7) preceding the
start of the taper for two-lane undivided road.
• A lane use arrow at the start of the wide white line (W-2). An additional arrow shall be included at the
mid-point of the full width lane when the wide white line (W-2) is longer than 400 ft.
• At least two lane use arrows where a thru lane becomes a mandatory left turn lane at an intersection,
one at the beginning of the wide white line (W-2) and one at the intersection.
Left turn lanes should include:
• A lane use arrow at the intersection.
• Adequate storage lengths. An engineering analysis should be done to determine the appropriate
storage length. Longer storage lengths should be provided for locations with higher speeds, higher
volumes, or traffic signals.
• A white dotted line (WD) in the gap between the reversing curves and wide white line (W-2) when the
left turn lane is located on a sharp horizontal curve where drivers are likely to unintentionally drift into
the turn lane.
Left turn lanes may include:
• The “break” layout (Figure 21: Option 2) instead of a reversing curve when approved by Region Traffic.
The “break” layout allows for an easier re-trace.
• Transverse median bars (TM) in the neutral area.
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June 2011B-15 Two-Way Left Turn Lanes
Two-way left turn lanes typically are used in urban areas to provide full movement access to adjacent properties
and roadways while minimizing impacts of left turning vehicles on thru traffic. Figure 22b illustrates the typical
layout of two-way left turn lanes.
Two-way left turn lanes also allow for a two-stage left turn maneuver for minor street traffic turning left onto the
roadway. This can be beneficial during peak traffic hours when adequate gaps are infrequent.
Types (Figure 22a):
• TWL: Standard marking used to delineate a two-way left turn lane.
Two-way left turn lanes shall:
• Be followed by separate left turn lane(s) at major intersections (Figure 22b). Refer to Section B-14,
pages 31-32, for left turn lanes.
• NOT include a single-direction lane use arrow.
Two-way left turn lanes should:
• Be marked up to the intersection at minor intersections (Figure 22c).
• Include dual left turn arrows at or just downstream from the beginning of a two-way left turn lane (Figure
22b).
Two-way left turn lanes may:
• Include dual left turn arrows placed at even intervals, proportioned within the block. Approximate
distance (ft) between each set should be 10 times the posted speed in mph.
• Include striped bull nose at minor T-intersections if approved by Region Traffic. Typically, a bull nose
that is 100 ft in length produces an aesthetically pleasing curve that misses the wheel path of vehicles
turning left from the side street (Figure 22c).
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June 2011B-16 Roundabouts (MUTCD 3C.01-3C.07)
Roundabouts are circular roadways at intersecting highways with yield control at the entering lanes. Figure 23
shows a typical layout of a single lane roundabout.
Roundabouts markings shall:
• Include no-passing zone markings prior to the splitter island according to Section B-20 (Approach to a
Fixed Obstruction).
• NOT include markings for bicycle lanes within the circulatory roadway of roundabout. Bike lanes should
stop 165 ft before the yield line, or if no yield line is present, 165 ft before the edge of the circulatory
roadway.
Roundabout markings should include:
• Continental style crosswalk markings at urban roundabouts. Crosswalks should be located 25 to 40 ft
from the wide white dotted line (WD-2) (or yield line if one is present) to allow for approximately one car
length of storage.
• Lane lines within the circulatory roadway of multi-lane roundabouts. If used, these lines shall NOT be
continuous concentric lines.
• A white edge line (W) on the outer (right) edge of the circular roadways along the splitter islands. No
line is marked across the exiting lanes.
• A wide white dotted line (WD-2) extending across the entering lanes.
• Lane use arrows within the circulatory roadway for multi-lane roundabouts.
Roundabout markings may include:
• A yellow edge line (Y) around the inner (left) edge of the circular roadway.
• A white yield line (YLD) across entering lanes if engineering judgment determines a need.
• Continental style crosswalk markings at rural roundabouts when engineering judgment determines a
need. Crosswalks should be located 25 to 40 ft from the white dotted line (or yield line if one is present)
to allow for approximately one car length of storage.
• Lane-use arrows on any approach and within the circulatory roadway.
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June 2011B-17 Interchange Ramps: Entrance Ramps (MUTCD 3B.04)
An engineering study & Region Traffic Engineer approval is required for:
• Any modification to the striping as shown in Figures 24a and 24b,
including but not limited to extending the 8-inch white channelizing
lines beyond the painted gore point.
Types of entrance ramps on freeways:
• Added lane (Figure 24a).
• Parallel acceleration lane (Figure 24b).
• Tapered acceleration lane. A tapered acceleration lane is characterized by a tangent entrance ramp
entering the freeway without an acceleration lane section (note that both Figures 24a and 24b have a
curved entrance ramp with a developed acceleration lane parallel to the highway). ODOT currently
does not design this type of entrance ramp, however, there may be existing entrance ramps with this
type of design. In these cases, contact the Region Traffic Engineer for guidance.
Entrance ramps shall include:
• Wide white channelizing lines (W-2) from the physical gore point to the painted gore point.
• White broken line (WB) from the painted gore point for the added lane option (Figure 24a) unless this
lane becomes an auxiliary lane between the entrance ramp and the following exit ramp, which is 2 miles
or less in length. For this case, wide white dotted lane line (DLL-2) shall be used.
• White dotted lane line (DLL) for the parallel acceleration lane, from the painted gore point to a point at
least one-half the distance from the painted gore point to the end of the taper (Figure 24b).
Entrance ramps should include:
• The gore point established by measurements of dimensions shown in Figures 24a and 24b. Layout of
ramp striping should originate with gore point.
Entrance ramps may include:
• White dotted lane line (DLL) for parallel acceleration lane from the end of the required white dotted lane
line (DLL) to the end of the taper (Figure 14b). White dotted line (DL) may be used instead of white
dotted lane line (DLL) beyond the required white dotted lane line (DLL).
• Chevron bars (CH) within the neutral area to further discourage motorists from using this area.
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